The Irish Federation of Sea Anglers held the Shore Master Angler competition over the weekend. The prestigious Master Angler title is keenly contested, with the top anglers from clubs up and down the country vying for the title, and the chance to captain Ireland at a World Championships. Places in the men’s “fish-offs” – the qualifier to make the Irish team are also up for grabs. The top 5 in the ladies event would qualify by right.

A busy scene on the beach

This year the event was based in Northern Ireland, with sessions fished at Benone and Whiterocks beaches. The weather proved challenging at times, with a big swell and tides making for tricky fishing.

Tracey Whelan with a double shot

Some anglers were doing very well after one or two sessions only to see everything come crashing down with one bad result. Consistency was definitely the key to success.

Watching the rod tip and waiting for a bite is Joe Chambers from Corrane SAC

Great job Glengormley!

Northern club Glengormley & District SAC were definitely winners on the weekend, taking both main titles home.

Lisa Gormley was the Ladies Master Angler for 2021, with a first, second and third placing in the 3 sessions giving her a comfortable win on 27 points. Tracey Whelan (Tramore/Waterford SAC) was second on 23 points, with Rosaleene Murphy (Tralee Bay SAC) third, also on 23 points. Also qualifying for the Irish team were Linda Manton (Lisdoonvarna/Fanore SAC) and Linda Snoddy (Glengormley).

Master Angler Lisa Gormley with a nice flounder

Also representing Glengormley brilliantly was Raymond McCann, Mr. Consistency with three second-place finishes to top the table on 72 points. Jordan Muir from the BASS club was second on 70 points. David Farrelly from South Shore SAC finished third on 67 points. Well done to all!

Glengormley & District SAC winners. Master Anglers Raymond McCann and Lisa Gormley with their trophies. Also receiving prizes were Tommy Carnegie and Linda Snoddy who both finished 5th, with Linda making the Irish team that Lisa will captain.

All photos courtesy of Neil Coulter who kindly made them available to us. You can check out his photography here.

Alison OSullivan with one of her fish on Benone
Wading out for another cast

Coarse angler JP Molloy, fresh from his win in the Munster Closed, trying to convince the stewards of the merits of coarse fishing.

 

Get Involved

The IFSA has clubs up and down the country, all of whom welcome new members. Most clubs will have introductory sessions for new anglers. While competition fishing is the lifeblood of many clubs, it is not all about competition – there is plenty of enjoyable fishing and good craic to be had with new friends.  Find your local sea angling club on www.ifsa.ie